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Rusnak pleased about increased federal funding for infrastructure projects in small communities

February 20, 2018

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Thunder Bay, ON – February 20, 2018. The Government of Canada is committed to making investments that will help create jobs and grow the middle class now, while building a strong foundation for a sustainable economic future.

Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, is pleased with Minister Amarjeet Sohi’s announcement on Friday February 16 that the federal cost share will increase from 50% to 60% for municipal projects in the provinces. Indigenous communities in the provinces will be eligible for a federal cost share of up to 75%. All communities in the three territories will remain eligible for a federal cost share of up to 75%. Eligible projects fall under the rural and northern communities infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada plan, which includes projects such as facilities that support food security, local roads, renewable energy and enhanced broadband connectivity.

The increased federal cost share will help small communities across Canada address their unique and wide ranging infrastructure priorities, improve sustainability and increase economic opportunities.

This is great news for over 3,000 small municipalities across Canada, including many in Thunder Bay—Rainy River, that could benefit from today’s announcement.

The funding will be made available through new bilateral agreements that are currently under negotiation between Infrastructure Canada and each of the provinces and territories as part of the Investing in Canada plan. The agreements are expected to be signed by spring 2018, opening the door to new project approvals.

Quote

“Through the Government of Canada’s Investing in Canada plan, we will invest more than $180 billion in infrastructure over 12 years in communities all across Canada. By increasing the federal cost-share for smaller communities, Canadians living, working and raising families in those communities will enjoy increased opportunities, and a more sustainable economic future.”

The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

“I am pleased with Minister Sohi`s announcement for smaller communities in our riding. The other members of the Rural Caucus and I have been advocating for this for some time, and I am always glad to see our government recognizing and investing in the potential of rural Canada. This extra federal funding will help us create a more vibrant and liveable community.”

Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River

Quick facts

The Government of Canada will invest more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities’ infrastructure.

Infrastructure Canada is currently negotiating new bilateral agreements with provinces and territories that will make over $33 billion available over the next decade to support Canadian communities’ diverse needs.